2018 Porsche Cayenne spy shots and video

The current Porsche Cayenne is approaching the end of its life cycle, as a successor now been spotted on multiple occasions testing in prototype form. The new SUV’s exterior is disguised but we can already make out the general shape of the third-generation model, which appears to have a sleeker look dominated by a longer, flatter roof.

The benefits of the platform are lighter weight and improved rigidity, brought about by a combination of high-strength steel, aluminum and even some carbon fiber in the mix. We’re expecting the new Cayenne to weigh as much as 220 pounds less than the current model, which in base trim still weighs in at almost 4,500 lb.

As for styling, Porsche’s Panamera Sport Turismo concept from 2012 plus the smaller Macan SUV point the way. Look for the new Cayenne to adopt the Macan’s clamshell hood and wraparound tail-lights. The Panamera Sport Turismo concept’s C-shaped fender vent and front air intakes are also expected to feature in the design.

Powertrains are expected to mirror the lineup in the current Cayenne. This means a naturally-aspirated V-6 for the base Cayenne, a turbocharged V-6 for the mid-range Cayenne S, a plug-in hybrid setup for the Cayenne S E-Hybrid, and a twin-turbocharged V-8 for the Cayenne Turbo. Given the VW Group’s diesel emissions scandal, which affects the current Cayenne Diesel, it’s not clear if this new model will still offer an oil-burner here in the United States. One will be offered overseas, though.